Core Viewpoint - Gold stocks are experiencing a significant decline in the afternoon trading session, influenced by fluctuations in international gold prices and market sentiment regarding economic conditions and monetary policy [1] Company Performance - Chifeng Jilong Gold Mining (06693) is down 7.64%, trading at HKD 32.88 [1] - China Gold International (02099) has decreased by 6.6%, currently at HKD 134.5 [1] - Zijin Mining (02899) fell by 5.67%, now at HKD 32.3 [1] - Shandong Gold Mining (01787) is down 4.01%, trading at HKD 40.2 [1] Market Conditions - International gold prices saw a sharp decline, briefly dropping below USD 4,120 per ounce before rebounding, after previously surpassing the USD 4,170 mark [1] - CITIC Futures noted that trade tensions and expectations of monetary easing are driving gold prices, supported by Federal Reserve rate cut expectations, a weaker dollar, and the U.S. fiscal deadlock [1] - The government shutdown has weakened the availability of economic data, leading to a market sentiment of "no data is bullish," which continues to drive buying [1] - A potential short-term technical correction may occur if overbought conditions arise, with USD 4,000 identified as a key support level, and increased price volatility could trigger profit-taking [1]